Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has dismissed speculation about a possible defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) following his recent meeting with President Bola Tinubu, insisting that he remains firmly committed to the opposition party.
Makinde spoke to journalists after a closed-door meeting with the President at the State House in Abuja, where he explained that the discussion centred on governance and national issues rather than party politics. He said his engagement with the President was based on the understanding that Tinubu is the President of Nigeria and not of any political party.
The governor stated clearly that he is comfortable in the PDP, despite the recent wave of defections by prominent politicians to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). He emphasised that working with the President on issues of national importance does not amount to abandoning his party or its principles.
According to Makinde, Nigeria’s democratic system requires a strong opposition, especially as the country moves toward the 2027 general elections. He noted that certain challenges facing the nation demand bipartisan cooperation and collective responsibility, regardless of party differences.
He added that leaders at all levels have a duty to collaborate on matters such as national security, poverty reduction, and the general welfare of citizens, stressing that such issues transcend political affiliations. Makinde maintained that cooperation on governance should not be misconstrued as political alignment.
The Oyo State governor also addressed perceptions that tensions within the PDP or his relationship with the Federal Government could signal a shift in loyalty, reiterating that his political stance remains unchanged. He said harmonious engagement across party lines is necessary to ensure stability and progress in the country.
Makinde’s comments come amid significant challenges for the PDP, which has witnessed multiple defections by governors and lawmakers to the APC ahead of the 2027 elections. Despite these developments, he reaffirmed his belief in the importance of multiparty democracy and his commitment to remaining within the PDP.
He further restated that while he is willing to engage constructively with the Federal Government for the benefit of Nigerians, his allegiance to the PDP is unwavering and his focus remains on delivering good governance to the people of Oyo State.
